The Three Shires Stone, a simple carved limestone pillar, which stands upon the Wrynose Pass, in the English Lake District, marks the place where the three traditional counties of Cumberland, Lancashire and Westmorland, all met. Cumberland and Westmorland, no longer exist and this part of Lancashire has been reduced, now all brought together in the new Cumbria, established as long ago as 1974. Presently the stone lies broken and damaged, awaiting repair.
The stone, which was quarried in the Cartmel area in the south of the county, was carved in 1816 by a William Field who then held the post of Furness Road Master. Furness, being formally the area of Lancashire covering the areas of Barrow and lands to Cartmel. The stone was erected in it's present position in 1860.
In it's recent history the stone appears to be the unfortunate victim of vehicular damage, such as something like a larger van or landrover, crashing into the structure. This occurred once before in 1997 and with careful masonry repairs being needed. This time the damage is thought to be considerably worse and much more careful and thoughtful repair will be needed.
The stone is also classed as a monument and is Grade II listed. In England and Wales there are three grade listings, with most structures falling under the Grade II listing.
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